Dream Come True

New arrival Ashkan Dejagah will fulfil his boyhood dream of playing in the Barclays Premier League when running out in the black and white of Fulham.

The Iran international joined the Club on the final day of the summer transfer window following eight years in German football – five of which were spent at former club VfL Wolfsburg.

One of several additions, the 26-year-old had to watch fellow new boys Dimitar Berbatov and Kieran Richardson make their debuts against West Ham United last time out – with the talented midfielder forced to miss out as a result of a slight injury.

“I’ve grown up in Germany, that’s where I have played all my football,” explained Ashkan. “But for as long as I can remember it has been my dream to play in the English top flight. Wonderful football is played in the Premier League and on top of that it is fast and very aggressive.

“This league is the toughest in the world, so with that comes many challenges. This is a huge step for me, but I’m confident of furthering my career here. I know that I will have to work extremely hard in making sure that happens, but I have everything I need here at Fulham.

“It’s a good time to be part of this Club, I know that. In fact, I have to pinch myself to believe that I’m actually here. It’s a fantastic feeling – it’s a dream come true.

“Of course, I would like to be showing what I can do from the start, but unfortunately at the moment I’m not fully fit. It’s not a serious injury, but you can’t rush back – no matter how desperate I am to pull on the Fulham shirt.”

Dejagah, who has already appeared at Craven Cottage when Wolfsburg travelled to SW6 for the UEFA Europa League Quarter-Final First Leg, will be cheering on his new teammates from the sidelines on Saturday afternoon and is confident Martin Jol’s side can take all three points from visiting West Bromwich Albion.

“Even though I won’t be involved in the game, I’m really looking forward to being at Craven Cottage and watching the Team take on West Brom,” he said. “I’ve been watching the Team train this week and they look good.

“We lost the last game, so obviously we want the win. I want to sample the atmosphere and support as a Fulham player – it’s a moment I will really enjoy. Hopefully the boys can get the result and make it even more of a day to remember.

“The experience will only strengthen my desire to get fit and be out there with them. It’s difficult starting out with an injury, but I’m confident that I can get back to my best, find my feet and do well for the Team.”